Study Links Ancient Subduction Zones to Major Copper, Zinc and Lead Deposits -

Ancient subduction zones played a crucial role in the formation of some of the world’s largest copper, zinc and lead deposits, according to a new study led by the University of Sydney.

Published in Nature Communications, the research offers a new framework for mineral exploration by explaining why some ancient continental margins are rich in mineral resources while others with similar geology are not.

The researchers reconstructed 1.8 billion years of plate tectonic activity and found that major sediment-hosted mineral deposits are typically located 800 to 1,800 kilometres from ancient subduction zones, with a median distance of about 1,200 kilometres.

Using geodynamic modelling, seismic data and a global database of more than 2,000 mineral deposits, the team concluded that deep mantle flow can transmit stress far into continents, weakening the edges of ancient landmasses and creating favourable conditions for mineral formation.

The findings could improve the accuracy of mineral exploration and strengthen long-term supplies of critical metals needed for infrastructure, manufacturing and clean energy technologies, the researchers said.-ERMD/TS

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